Accept

It begins when a teacher tells us where to sit and when to speak.
We accept.

Then, as teenagers, we are defined by others; identified by clique or class.
We accept.

We find work and regimentation; our time is not our own, nor is our mind.
We accept.

Taxes come from our toil; governments weigh on our shoulders but care not.
We accept.

They see and hear us all; to them everything must be known.
We accept.

Freedom shrinks; commandments from white towers for every thought and deed.
We accept.

The chains are not heavy once one has worn them for years; slavery of the mind worse than of the body.
You accept.

Conditioned to obey, you no longer think; trapped in waking sleep.
You accept.

You no longer live, but simply exist; physicality your prison.
You accept.

Broken, you find comfort in conformity; safety in ignorance.
You accept.

Beaten, you dare not raise our eyes; or your voice.
You accept that you must accept.